DE102004049448B4 - Biometrically activated imaging system together with associated network and method - Google Patents

Abstract

A medical biometrically activated imaging system (74), comprising: a central processing unit (14); a data storage unit (70) exchanging data with the central processing unit (14); an imaging device (84) electronically connected to the central processing unit (14); and a biometric authorization unit (82) or (90) electronically connected to the central processing unit (14), wherein a user inputs a biometric identifier to the biometric authorization unit (82) or (90) to facilitate use of the medical imaging system (14). 74) for patient imaging, wherein biometric data extracted from the biometric identifiers is compared with biometric data stored in the data storage unit (70) associated with stored biometric data stored personal identification data, and stored biometric data and personal information stored Identification data are stored after an initial registration in which the biometric data and the personal identification data are associated with user preference data relating to the imaging of the imaging device (84).

Description

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to imaging systems, such as medical imaging systems, and more particularly to a system and method for identifying users of an imaging system using biometric identifiers.

Various medical imaging systems and operating modes are known and used for diagnosis and serve as aids in treatment and surgical procedures. For example, ultrasound, magnetic resonance (MR), computed tomography, and other types of imaging techniques are used to map a variety of anatomical features. Ultrasound imaging systems are a useful and versatile imaging technique. Typically, ultrasound imaging systems are easy to use, cost effective, and portable, and do not stress a patient with harmful ionizing radiation.

Operator of an ultrasound imaging system, d. H. Sonographers are usually well-trained professionals whose experience plays an important role in achieving accurate, high-quality images. During a typical ultrasound imaging session, a sonography specialist conducts an ultrasound probe proximate a region of interest to be imaged over an anatomical region of a patient. Each sonographer may have special preferences for a variety of imaging parameters and probe characteristics. For example, a sonographer may prefer a particular image brightness, configuration, or ultrasound probe bias setting (eg, an orientation of an imaging component located on the ultrasound probe). Typically, before each imaging session, the sonographer will adjust the ultrasound imaging system to suit his or her specific preferences. The process of setting the system to special preferences of a person takes time. In addition, with each change of user personal preferences corresponding settings have to be made.

Further, with the increased demands for security and privacy, only certain physicians may be entitled to use a particular imaging system. However, many imaging systems have no provision for preventing unauthorized persons from using the systems. Some systems require the input of a password (including terms and PIN numbers) and / or the use of a code or magnetic card to begin imaging. However, passwords can be intercepted, and code, magnetic cards and the like can get into the hands of unauthorized users.

Thus, there is a need for a system, network, and method for enhanced safety medical imaging. A need exists for a system, network, and method that allows only authorized users to use a medical imaging system. Further, there is a need for a more efficient system, network and method for imaging a patient.

From the closest publication US 6,129,671 A For example, an ultrasound imaging system with a biometric detector is known. A biometric feature of the operator is captured by the detector and evaluated for operator authorization. The user is identified in one step and granted access to the ultrasound imaging system.

It is also known in computer networks to restrict access to authorized users. For example, describes US 6,260,021 B1 a network to which several hospitals can be connected. Through this network patient information as well as medical images of the patients can be viewed. To protect the data from unauthorized access, a security server is provided. To authorize a user password queries or biometric techniques can be used.

The US 2003/0140928 A1 discloses a system and method for verifying medical treatment for accuracy. Medical devices, such as infusion pumps, may check for a predetermined treatment or medication to prevent incorrect treatment.

The EP 1 209 611 A1 relates to the reading of a phosphorus-containing X-ray storage film. After the X-ray recording, the X-ray storage foil contained in a cassette must be read out and digitized in a special reading device, since the image is only retained on the X-ray storage foil for a very limited time. In EP 1 209 611 A1 It is proposed to link the data of the radiologist and the patient and assign the cassette. The reader can read the data when digitizing the X-ray image and assign the digitized image. To ensure data security, the operator when entering data through biometric data, a code card, etc.

The problem underlying this need is solved by the subject-matter of independent claims 1, 8 and 14.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Specific embodiments of the present invention provide a medical imaging system including a central processing unit, a data storage unit electronically connected to the central processing unit, an imaging device electronically connected to the central processing unit, and a biometric authorization unit electronically connected to the central processing unit. A user enters a biometric identifier into the biometric authorization unit, such as fingerprint, handprint, iris, retina, facial thermogram, voice, or the like, to enable use of the medical imaging system. Biometric data extracted from the biometric tag is compared to biometric data stored in the data storage cartridge. The stored biometric data may be associated with personal preference data also user preference data, such as preferences, the monitor's playback settings and the imaging of an instrument.

More generally, the use of the imaging system is permitted when there is a match between the biometric data extracted from the biometric identifiers and the stored biometric data. Data relating to the user's use of the medical imaging system is stored in the data storage unit. For example, data about the number of uses of the imaging system by a particular user, the times the user uses the imaging system, and the duration of the imaging sessions may be stored in the data storage unit. In addition, the results of the imaging session, i. H. resulting images are stored in the data storage unit and assigned to the individual user who has taken the images by means of the imaging system.

The imaging device may be an ultrasound probe used within an ultrasound imaging system. Alternatively, the imaging system may be a computed tomography (CT), x-ray (photographic film or digital technology), positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), electron beam tomography (EBT), magnetic resonance (MR) or imaging be guided surgery system.

Specific embodiments of the present invention further provide a medical imaging network comprising a plurality of mutually data-exchanging medical imaging systems. The network may further include a central management station that communicates with each of the medical imaging systems. Biometric data and system usage data extracted from a biometric may be stored in a central data storage unit in the central management station and / or in individual data storage units in the individual imaging systems.

Specific embodiments of the present invention further provide a method of using a medical imaging system including the steps of: registering to use the medical imaging system, storing biometric data and associated personal data, and allowing use of the medical imaging system, if any biometric authorization unit entered biometric data to fit stored biometric data. The step of registering includes entering a biometric identifier into a biometric authorization unit, inputting personal data into the medical imaging system, and associating the biometric data extracted from the biometric identifiers with the personal data. The method may further include restricting access to the step of registering by entering a password.

Specific embodiments of the present invention further provide a method of using audio / video equipment including the steps of: registering to use the audio / video equipment by entering biometric data, storing the biometric data, and allowing use of the audio / video equipment; Video equipment if the biometric data entered after registration matches the stored biometric data. The audio / video equipment may be any of the television, camera, CD player, DVD player or car stereo equipment. Access to the registry may be restricted by the requirement to enter a password. Ie. A person can register if they previously provide a password or enter a PIN number.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SOME VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

1 illustrates an imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2 FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic imaging system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

3 FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic imaging system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

4 illustrates a block diagram of an authorization unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

5 FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an imaging system network in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

6 illustrates an X-ray system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

7 FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a registration process according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG.

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of specific embodiments of the present invention, will become better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. In the figures, specific embodiments are shown to illustrate the invention. However, it is of course by no means intended to limit the present invention to the arrangements and functionalities shown in the attached figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

1 illustrates a medical imaging system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. To the imaging system 10 belong to a basic body 12 in which a central unit 14 , Electronics and other components are housed, a user control input unit 16 (For example, a keyboard, a mouse or a touch screen), an imaging device (for example, an ultrasonic probe), a display unit 18 and an authorization unit 20 , The user control input unit 16 , the imaging device, the display unit 18 and the authorization unit 20 All are functionally via electronic data exchange with the central unit 14 connected.

The imaging system 10 may be an ultrasound system, or it may be one of a variety of other types of imaging systems, such as an x-ray system, MR system, CT imaging system. For example, the imaging system may include an X-ray C-arm having an X-ray source positioned on one distal end of the arm and a detector positioned on the other distal end of the arm, as in US Pat U.S. Patent 6,104,780A , entitled "Mobile bi-planar fluoroscopic imaging apparatus", the U.S. Patent 5,802,719A , entitled "One piece C-arm for x-ray diagnostic equipment" and the U.S. Patent 5,627,873 shown and described, entitled "Mini C-arm assembly for mobile x-ray imaging system", the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Optionally, the imaging system may be an MR system, as in the US Pat U.S. Patent 6,462,544 B1 , entitled "Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus", the entire contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

The authorization unit 20 may be arranged to identify fingerprints, faces, voices, or various other distinct characteristics of individual persons. The authorization unit 20 is used to a user of the imaging system 10 to identify. Entered biometric data will be sent to the authorization unit 20 compared with stored biometric data. The stored biometric data can be stored in a data storage unit, ie a main memory, of the central processing unit 14 stored or may be stored in a data storage unit of a central unit of a remotely located central management station which (for example, via modems, DSL lines, T1 or T3 lines, wireless data transmission paths and the like) to the central unit 14 Exchanges data. If the entered biometric data on the authorization unit does not match saved biometric data, access to the imaging system becomes available 10 denied. If the at the authorization unit 20 However, given biometric data that matches stored biometric data, a person is allowed to use the imaging system 10 to use. Moreover, in this case, based on the input of the biometric data, as discussed in greater detail below, stored user preferences associated with the stored biometric data may be applied to the imaging system 10 be applied.

2 Fig. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic imaging system 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 11 includes an ultrasound probe 15 housed transducer array 13 on the transducer array 13 is via a send / receive switch 17 to a transmitter 19 and a receiver 21 coupled. The transmitter 19 causes the transducer array 13 To emit pulses or pulsed ultrasonic signals into an object or into a body. A waveform generator 22 generates waveforms by means of a transmitter controller 24 controlled transmitter 19 along the same spatial line can be emitted temporally successive.

The ultrasound signals are backscattered from structures present in the body, such as blood cells, muscle tissue, or contrast microbubbles, to produce echoes that pass through the transducer array 13 be detected. The echoes of each transmit pulse are sequenced by a receiver 21 receive. The received echoes are transmitted through a beamformer 26 which performs beamforming and filtering steps, and that performed by a receiver controller 28 is controlled. The received signals are then stored in a working memory 30 saved. A central unit 32 coordinates functions of higher levels existing in the ultrasound imaging system, for example from a user control panel 34 accepted user input, playback of data on a display 36 , and the same. Received signals are processed and stored in memory 30 saved. A signal processor 38 filters and processes the signals. The resulting processed signals can be detected by an envelope and logarithmically compressed, then by the signal processor 38 to a sampling converter 40 be transmitted. The processed signals are then displayed by means of the display 36 displayed.

3 Fig. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic imaging system 42 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 42 includes a transducer array 44 to which a plurality of separately driven transducer elements 46 each of which generates an ultrasonic energy burst when excited by a pulsed waveform coming from a transmitter 48 and by a transmit / record (T / R) switch set in a transmit mode 50 is sent. The patient anatomy to be examined from the transducer array 44 reflected ultrasonic energy is transmitted through each receiving transducer element 46 converted to an electronic signal and via T / R switch 50 , which are switched to a receiving mode, separately to a receiver 52 output. The T / R switches 50 can be diodes that protect the receiving electronics from the high voltages generated by the transmission electronics. The transmit signal causes the diodes to send the signal in the direction of the receiver 52 lock or limit. The transmitter 48 and the receiver 52 are under the control of a host computer (ie a central processing unit) 54 operated. A complete scan pass is performed by acquiring a series of echoes after the transmitter 48 was temporarily turned ON to each transducer element 46 in the emission aperture, and the subsequent echo signals are in the form of low voltage analog RF (radio frequency) signals passing through each transducer element 46 be produced in response to the reflected ultrasound energy, to the receiver 52 output. The recipient 52 combines those from each transducer element 46 to produce a single echo signal that is used to produce a line in an image on a display monitor 56 to create.

The recipient 52 is responsible for A / D conversion and for shaping the receive beam. In baseband imaging systems, the beam sum signal is sent to a demodulator 58 outputting the beam sum signal into baseband in-phase I and quadrature Q reception components. The one from the demodulator 58 output I and Q sound data vectors are sent to corresponding FIR filters 60 (finite impulse response), suitably programmed with filter coefficients, to pass a band of frequencies, preferably centered at the center frequency of the transmission waveform or at a harmonic or subharmonic frequency thereof.

The vectors of the filtered I and Q sound data are sent to a B-mode processor 62 which converts the I and Q sound data into a logarithmically compressed version of the signal envelope. The B-mode function maps the time-varying amplitude of the envelope of the signal as a gray scale. The envelope of a baseband signal represents the magnitude of the vector represented by I and Q.

The B-mode intensity data is sent to a sampling converter 64 output having a B-mode sound storage, which is followed by an XY display memory. The acoustic line memory receives and interpolates the processed vectors of the B-mode intensity data if necessary, and further performs coordinate transformation of a polar coordinate sector format or a linear Cartesian coordinate format to suitably calibrated pixel intensity data of a Cartesian one on the B-mode intensity data Coordinate displays that are stored in the XY display memory.

The scan-converted frames become a video processor 66 which converts the pixel intensity data to the video frame rate and then maps the pixel intensity data to a gray scale to enable playback on a video display. A conventional ultrasound imaging system usually uses a variety of gray scale mappings that are simple transfer functions of the unprocessed intensity data to render gray levels on the screen. The gray scale image frames are sent to the display monitor for playback 56 output.

Embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with a variety of ultrasound imaging systems. For example, the ultrasound imaging system may be a two-dimensional or three-dimensional ultrasound system. In addition, the ultrasound systems may be, for example, B-mode, Doppler or other types of systems known and used in the art. In addition, a variety of types of ultrasound probes can be used, including probes having sector, linear, curved or active matrix arrays. In particular, embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with any type of medical imaging system, including magnetic resonance (MR), computed tomography (CT), X-ray, and other comparable systems. In addition, embodiments of the present invention may also be used in conjunction with non-medical imaging systems, e.g. Television cameras, camcorders, thermal imaging systems, light amplification vision and imaging systems (eg, night vision goggles), and the like.

4 shows a block diagram of the authorization unit 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. To the (in 1 shown) imaging system 10 to use, a person first performs a registration. The person can join one with the imaging system 10 networked central management station or in the imaging system 10 register yourself. The central management station also has an authorization unit capable of receiving biometric data. Registration requires the person to enter biometric data into the authorization unit 20 enter. The authorization unit 20 registered via a biometric reader 68 the biometric identifier of the person, such as a fingerprint, the retina, the facial contour, or the like. The person offers the biometric reader 68 a biometric mark. The biometric reader 68 scans the biometric identifier, for example, a fingerprint of the person and recorded from the biometric identifier diverse identification points. The biometric reader 68 scans the biometric label and extracts biometric indicators from the biometric label. The biometric reader 68 The biometric indicators subject a recognition algorithm, which converts the scanned image of the biometric label into a much shorter data code. The biometric reader 68 then transmits the shorter data code of biometric identification or biometric data to a data storage unit 70 within the authorization unit 20 , The data storage unit 70 can be within the authorization unit 20 be contained, or may be within the central unit 14 of the imaging system 10 be included.

Again with respect to 1 , the person can via the user control input unit 16 Enter personal data such as name, address, occupation, security clearance information and the like. The user control input unit 16 may be a computer keyboard, a mouse, or a touch-responsive monitor. The personal data is subsequently sent to the data storage unit 70 transmitted. An encoder then takes the biometric data and the personal data from the data storage unit 70 opposite. Personal data and biometric data can then be encoded. Ie. the encoder can compare and merge the personal data with the biometric data. The encoded personal data and biometric data are subsequently stored in the central processing unit 14 or in a central processing unit of the imaging system 10 networked central management station stored. When the personal data and the biometric data are compared and merged, the registration is complete.

In addition, a person may store user preferences associated with personal data and biometric data. For example, a user may be prompted via the display unit to specify their preferences for imaging. The person can on the display unit 18 used brightness, color, contrast, display configuration (for example, multiple views of multiple areas of an anatomy) and the like. In addition, the person can set various parameters of the imaging device. For example, if an ultrasound imaging system is used, the individual may determine the number of active transducer elements on the ultrasound probe, the intensity of the radiated from the probe Specify ultrasonic signals, standard energy levels, gain level, depth, probe type, application type, mode type, imaging depth, position and number of focal zones, field of view, filter activation, compound spatial operation, voice command settings, and the like.

Once the person has adjusted the imaging system to his or her specific preferences, the person may be asked to back up the prescriptions. If the individual person chooses to secure the defaults, the settings are assigned to that individual person. Ie. the person's imaging preferences are associated with the personal data and biometric data and in the data storage unit 70 saved. When an individual person uses the imaging system 10 at a later date by entering their biometric data in the authorization unit 20 activates, the imaging system 10 thus adapt automatically to the preferences of the person. Because the imaging system 10 In this way, it can be automatically adjusted to a person's preferences, less time is spent on the imaging system 10 to adjust to the specific preferences of an individual person.

Once an individual has registered, the person can use the imaging system 10 activate. To the imaging system 10 to use, provides the individual person of the authorization unit 20 a biometric mark. If the authorization unit 20 For example, to pick up fingerprints, the person gives a fingerprint on the authorization unit 20 from. The biometric data scanned from the biometric label is compared to stored biometric data. If there is a match, the imaging system is able to determine the identity of the person from the personal identification data associated with the stored biometric data. The person can then use the imaging system 10 use to perform an imaging on a patient. Alternatively, only sets of biometric data (but without personal data) may be stored, and thereby use of the imaging system 10 allow biometric data to match stored biometric data.

If, when the individual person offers a biometric mark, between those at the authorization unit 20 presented biometric data and that in the data storage unit 70 stored biometric data, the person may be required to register. The registration process may include a password or other input control protocol (for example, the use of a code or magnetic card) to deny registration to unauthorized persons. For example, the first step of a registration may be the assignment of a password to a user by a system administrator.

5 illustrates a block diagram of an imaging system network 72 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The network 72 includes a variety of imaging systems 74 which may be ultrasound imaging systems, x-ray imaging systems or various other types of imaging system. Every imaging system 74 is via various types of Internet connections (modem, wireless, DSL, T1, or the like) with a central management station 76 networked. As discussed above, belongs to any imaging system 74 an input device 78 (eg a keyboard), a display unit 80 , an authorization unit 82 and an imaging device 84 (For example, an ultrasonic probe), all in functional electronic data exchange with a processor unit (not shown). The central management station 76 has an input device 86 on, the functional to a central unit 88 which is also functional to an authorization unit 90 connected. Registration, as discussed above, may be performed on any of the imaging systems 74 or at the central management station 76 respectively.

Biometric data and user preference data may be available at either the central management station 76 or in the imaging systems 74 be saved. In addition, biometric data and user preference data may be periodically transmitted from the central management station 76 to the individual imaging systems 74 be downloaded. In addition, biometric data and user preference data can be obtained from the individual imaging systems 74 to the central management station 76 be uploaded.

Alternatively, all of the imaging systems 74 be directly networked with each other, as opposed to networking via the central management station 76 , In addition, the network can 72 possibly without the central management station 76 be equipped, but instead a variety of interconnected imaging systems 74 contain. Every imaging system 74 can be based on a different technology. For example, an imaging system 74 while another may be an X-ray C-arm and still another may be an electromagnetic position tracking system. In addition, the authorization unit for each imaging system can be defined by means of a password, a magnetic card, a key, or the like overridden.

6 illustrates an X-ray system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The X-ray system 100 has a movable support structure 102 , a bearing arrangement 104 and a positioning or C-arm 106 on. An X-ray detector 110 is at a distal end of the C-arm 106 connected, and an X-ray source 114 is with another distal end of the C-arm 106 connected. The X-ray system 100 also contains an authorization unit 120 , the authorization unit described above 20 similar.

As mentioned above, embodiments of the present invention may be used in conjunction with a variety of imaging modes. For example, the authorization unit may be used in conjunction with a computed tomography (CT) system, a (photographic film or digital technique based) x-ray system, a positron emission tomography (PET) system, as in US-A-4,423,764 U.S. Patent 6,337,481 entitled "Data binning method and apparatus for PET tomography including remote services over a network", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, a single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) system such as the U.S. Patent 6,194,725 shown and described, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, an electron-beam tomography (EBT) system, such as an electron beam tomography (EBT) system. B. in the U.S. Patent 5,442,673 "Fixed Septum Collimator for Electron Beam Tomography", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, a magnetic resonance (MR) system and various other imaging systems. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention may also be used in conjunction with navigation and position tracking systems, e.g. B. with those in the U.S. Patent 5,803,089 entitled "Position Tracking and Imaging Systems for Use in Medical Applications", the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

7 shows a flowchart of the registration process according to an embodiment of the present invention. In step 122 Gives an individual person, such as a doctor, a professional or the like., At an authorization unit biometric data. If the person has previously registered, the imaging system will recognize the person and may start using it. In step 124 the person also enters personal data such as their name. Optionally, the person before step 124 Enter a password that allows you to continue the registration process. In step 126 The authorization unit assigns the personal data and biometric data of the individual person to each other. In step 128 then gives the person the option to specify and save imaging preferences that can be associated with the personal data and biometric data. After registration, the person can then use the imaging system and any other imaging system linked thereto. Optionally, the person may be authorized to use only certain imaging systems in a network. In addition, a centralized management system may involve the use of diverse imaging systems by an individual person's book. Ie. the central management system may store usage data (eg, date / time of use, duration of use, results, and the like) in a storage unit. Alternatively, each imaging system within a network may store usage data.

The biometric authorization units discussed above may also be used in conjunction with smart cards and the like to provide additional security against unauthorized use.

In addition, the biometric authorization units described above may be used in conjunction with audio / video equipment, e.g. As a TV, a VCR, DVD players, computers, mobile phones and the like are used to reserve access to those devices authorized persons, with the aim of preventing the theft of those devices. For example, persons acquiring audio / video equipment such as a television, DVD players, CD players, car stereos, etc. may be required to register via a biometric authorization unit, e.g. Via an authorization unit 20 , The audio / video equipment can only be activated by a registered person entering a biometric in an authorization unit operatively connected to the audio / video equipment. The person can then secure a password in a data storage unit of the authorization unit to allow additional registrations. In addition, user preferences can be assigned to the biometric data. For example, biometric data may be assigned volume settings, station programming, and the like.

In addition, the biometric authorization units discussed above may also be used to restrict access to automated teller machines (ATMs). For example, instead of using a magnetic card and a PIN, a person may gain access to a bank account at an ATM by entering a biometric in an authorization unit operatively connected to the ATM. A sink may register a person's biometric data, such as a fingerprint, with that person's account. The biometric data of the individual person and the account data are then assigned to each other. The person can then access their account by contacting an authorization unit of an account access station, e.g. B. an ATM enters a biometric indicator.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention provide a medical imaging system that provides a higher level of security. In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide an efficient system and method in which only authorized users can use medical imaging systems.

Medical imaging system with a central processing unit 14 , a data storage unit 70 connected to the central unit 14 Data is exchanged, one electronically with the central unit 14 connected imaging device and one with the central processing unit 14 electronically linked biometric authorization unit 82 or 90 , A user enters a biometric identifier into the biometric authorization unit 82 or 90 to activate the medical imaging system.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

medical imaging system

12

body

14

a central unit

16

User control input unit

18

display unit

20

authorization unit

11

Ultrasound diagnostic imaging system

13

transducer array

15

ultrasound probe

17

Transmit / receive switch

19

transmitter

21

receiver

22

Waveform generator

24

transmitter controller

26

beamformer

28

receiver controller

30

random access memory

32

central processing unit

34

User control panel

36

display

38

signal processor

40

scan converter

42

Ultrasound diagnostic imaging system

44

transducer array

46

transducer

48

transmitter

50

Send / Aufnehmen- (T / R) switch

52

receiver

56

display monitor

58

demodulator

60

filter

62

B-mode processor

64

scan converter

68

a biometric reader

70

Data storage unit

72

an imaging system network

74

imaging systems

76

central management station

78

input device

80

display unit

82

authorization unit

84

imaging device

86

input device

88

central processing unit

90

authorization unit

100

X-ray system

102

movable support structure

104

bearing arrangement

106

C-Arm

X-ray detector

114

X-ray source

120

authorization unit

122

step

124

step

126

step

128

step

Claims (17)

Medical biometrically activated imaging system ( 74 ), which includes: a central processing unit ( 14 ); a data storage unit ( 70 ), the data with the central unit ( 14 ) exchanges; an imaging device ( 84 ) connected to the central unit ( 14 ) is electronically connected; and a biometric authorization unit ( 82 ) or ( 90 ) connected to the central unit ( 14 ), in which a user inserts a biometric identifier into the biometric authorization unit ( 82 ) or ( 90 ) to enable use of the medical imaging system ( 74 ) for imaging on the patient, biometric data extracted from the biometric identifiers in the data storage unit ( 70 ) stored biometric data associated with stored biometric data stored personal identification data, and which stored biometric data and the stored personal identification data are stored after an initial registration, in the biometric data stored and the personal identification data user preference data concerning the imaging of the imaging device ( 84 ) assigned. Medical Imaging System ( 74 ) according to claim 1, wherein a use of the imaging system ( 74 ), if there is a match between the biometric data extracted from the biometric identifiers and the stored bio metric data. Medical Imaging System ( 74 ) according to claim 1, wherein data indicating the use of the imaging system ( 74 ) by the user in the data storage unit ( 70 ) get saved. Medical Imaging System ( 74 ) according to claim 1, wherein the imaging device ( 84 ) an ultrasound probe ( 15 ), and the imaging system ( 74 ) an ultrasound imaging system ( 11 ) or ( 42 ). Medical Imaging System ( 74 ) according to claim 1, wherein the medical imaging system ( 74 ) is a computed tomography (CT), X-ray, positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), electron beam tomography (EBT), magnetic resonance (MR), and / or imaging guided surgery system. The medical imaging system of claim 1, wherein the biometric identifier is at least one of a fingerprint, a handprint, a voice, an iris, a retina and / or a facial thermogram. Medical Imaging System ( 74 ) according to claim 1, wherein the medical imaging system ( 74 ) with at least one other imaging system ( 74 ) is networked. Medical Imaging Network ( 72 ) to which a variety of medical imaging systems ( 74 ), which exchange each other's data, which each of the medical imaging systems ( 74 ) contains: a medical imaging device ( 84 ); and a biometric authorization unit ( 82 ) or ( 90 ), in which a user enters a biometric identifier in the biometric authorization unit ( 82 ) or ( 90 ) to the medical imaging device ( 84 ) for patient imaging, a central management station ( 76 ) associated with each of the medical imaging systems ( 74 ) Exchanges data in the biometric data extracted from a biometric in a central data storage unit in the central management station ( 76 ) and / or in individual data storage units in the individual imaging systems ( 74 stored biometric data and the personal identification data user preference data concerning the imaging of the imaging device ( 84 ) assigned. Medical Imaging Network ( 72 ) according to claim 8, wherein usage data, in particular date and / or time of use, duration of use and / or results, in a storage unit of the central management station ( 76 ) or in one of the imaging systems ( 74 ) within the imaging network ( 72 ) get saved. Medical Imaging Network ( 72 ) according to claim 8, wherein the person at the central management station ( 76 ) or in one of the imaging systems ( 74 ) registered yourself. Medical Imaging Network ( 72 ) according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the plurality of imaging systems ( 74 ) an ultrasound imaging system ( 11 ) or ( 42 ). Medical Imaging Network ( 72 ) according to claim 8, wherein the medical imaging system ( 74 ) is a computed tomography (CT), X-ray, positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), electron beam tomography (EBT), magnetic resonance (MR), and / or imaging guided surgery system. Medical Imaging Network ( 72 ) according to claim 8, wherein the biometric mark is at least a fingerprint, a handprint, a voice, an iris, a retina and / or a facial thermogram. Method for using a medical imaging system ( 74 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7, including the steps of: registering to use the medical imaging system ( 74 ), comprising: (i) entering a biometric identifier into a biometric authorization unit ( 82 ) or ( 90 ) (Step 122 ), (ii) inputting personal data into the medical imaging system (step 124 ) and (iii) associating the biometric data extracted from the biometric identifiers with the personal data (step 126 ), Storing biometric data and associated personal data, Storing user preference data associated with the stored biometric data and personal identification data, allowing use of the medical imaging system ( 74 ), if on a biometric authorization unit ( 82 ) or ( 90 ) biometric data matches stored biometric data. The method of claim 14, wherein access to the step of registering is restricted by entering a password. Method according to claim 14, wherein the medical imaging system ( 74 ) is a computed tomography (CT), X-ray, positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), electron beam tomography (EBT), magnetic resonance (MR), and / or imaging guided surgery system. The method of claim 14, wherein the biometric identifier is at least a fingerprint, a palm print, a voice, an iris, a retina and / or a facial thermogram.

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